A groundbreaking survey has revealed that Kamala Harris enjoys overwhelming trust from Black Americans, with 71% expressing confidence in her compared to just 5% who trust Donald Trump. This survey, the largest of its kind since the Reconstruction era, includes responses from 211,219 Black individuals across all 50 states, offering a significant insight into Black voters' sentiments as the 2024 presidential election approaches.
The 2023 Black Census, conducted by the Black Futures Lab in partnership with 50 grassroots organizations and national partners, was unveiled at a virtual press conference on Thursday. This census, which saw seven times more participants than the 2018 iteration, reflects a broad and detailed snapshot of Black Americans’ priorities and political leanings.
Natishia June, Field Director at Black Futures Lab, emphasized the importance of the census in shaping political agendas. “For us to be powerful in politics, we must control the agenda,” June stated, highlighting the role of such surveys in influencing voter mobilization efforts.
The survey identified several key concerns among Black Americans. The top issues include low wages (38%), gun violence (33%), and failing schools (31%). Economic issues were predominant, with a strong desire for increased affordability in higher education (97%), a raised minimum wage to $15 an hour (95%), and expanded government aid (94%). The data suggests that respondents are seeking support commensurate with their tax contributions, challenging the stereotype of Black Americans seeking handouts.
The survey also revealed a significant trust disparity: Black Americans place the highest trust in small businesses, while corporations, elected officials, and police receive the least trust. Kristin Powell, a principal at Black Futures Lab, noted that this preference for small businesses aligns with the growing trend of Black entrepreneurship and the desire for supportive policies.
Political affiliation data showed that 70% of respondents identified as Democratic, while only 2% identified as Republican. The remaining 23% of respondents were independents who predominantly leaned Democratic. Powell pointed out that despite rhetoric about independent voters being up for grabs, the data indicates a strong Democratic lean among Black voters, with non-voters emerging as a key concern if their needs are unmet.
The survey also uncovered a gap in voter turnout for local elections compared to federal ones. Powell stressed the importance of educating and mobilizing voters for local races, such as mayoral, city council, and school board elections, to effectuate tangible changes in their communities.
The New Georgia Project, a nonpartisan organization focused on engaging Black and brown voters, plans to leverage the survey data to address local issues. Research Director Ranada Robinson highlighted the importance of returning to communities to share insights and demonstrate the impact of civic engagement.
Robinson emphasized the need for continuous dialogue and transparency to build trust and empower Black voters. “Black voters need consistent interest and conversation and seeing the results of their civic engagement to build long-term power systems,” Robinson said.
The survey results are expected to influence both presidential and local election strategies, underscoring the pivotal role of Black voters in shaping the future of American politics.
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